Tower of London

You can explore the historic royal palaces and fortresses and discover the impenetrable defensive structures and defensive walls that were built to defend the Tower!

Experience history like never before and discover what it was like to be a medieval soldier working in this cramped place. Meet the legendary Yeoman Warder and famous ravens before heading to Lower Wakefield Tower as you explore the evilest methods of gruesome torture in British history that were used at the Tower to torture its prisoners, especially in the 16th century and 17th century. Forty-eight prisoners are known to have been horrifically physically tortured and interrogated to give up the names of their accomplices. Still, there were many more who were put in solitary confinement and were held to psychological punishments... One of those tortured was Guy Fawkes in 1605. Did you know only seven executions happened within the caste before the 20th century? Including the execution of Lady Jane Grey - the 'Nine Day Queen'.

The medieval castle of the Tower of London has a lot of exciting history. In the 13th century, 1214, while the king was residing at Windsor Castle, they led an army into London to siege the Tower. And in the 15th century, the Princes in the Tower mysteriously disappeared... Did you also know the Tower of London is the most complete example of an 11th-century fortress palace remaining in Europe? A famous monument that is worth visiting when in the city walls of London.

The Tower of London then started to gain tourist popularity in the 19th century, much to the dismay of the Duke of Wellington. By the end of the century, over 500,000 tourists visited the castle every year.

The White Tower

Then, wander over to Britain's most famous castle, the White Tower. It was initially built to intimidate and terrify Londoners and deter foreign invaders. Inside the castle is a unique Romanesque chapel, built in the 11th century as a Chapel of St John the Evangelist.

You can discover lots of historical exhibits here, like the 350-year-old exhibition of the Line of Kings and a collection of treasures, including royal armouries on display and commemorative souvenirs. In the late 13th century, the Tower became a repository for important documents and precious items owned by the Crown. Beefeater Tour On the Beefeater tour, experience the interactive Armoury in Action exhibition and, if you dare, take a trip to the top floor and the original 18th-century executioner's block, which was mainly held at Tower Hill. Talking about executions, did you know that the Tower of London has been the setting for historical events in European history? Like the execution of three English queens!

Your little warriors will then be ready for battle! The Tower is under attack, and they must join the royal guard in beating back the terrible Red Earl and his advancing hordes. Will the ancient battlements hold? Find out in a live re-enactment.

Superbloom

If you're looking for something unique and a break from the gruesome history, find the Superbloom moat! An occasion that marked the incredible Platinum Jubilee, where over 20 million seeds were planted in the moat that will create a wild and natural landscape. Encouraging wildlife such as bees to pollinate and butterflies to soar. A flora paradise for wildlife - with a vibrant collection of blue, pink, green, yellow, orange and more flowers blooming all around. Open from June to September, you can visit the Tower of London and Superbloom! You can even slide down into the moat and experience a new naturalistic landscape environment.

Visit the Royal Beasts exhibit, where you'll learn all about the exotic animals held captive in the Tower for more than 600 years! To finish with a bang, be dazzled by the 23,578 gems that make up the Crown Jewels in the Jewel House. Just don't try to pinch any, or you might find yourself up on the executioner's block! 

Why We Suggest The Tower of London for Families

If you want to soak up historic British culture and deep dive into history, the Tower of London is a must-visit destination. The iconic castle that's been cared for by the Historic Royal Palaces charity has a rich and amazing history, engaging exhibits, and family-friendly activities, making it the perfect place to explore.

- Dive into the amazing history on a guided tour of the 11th-century fortress palace

- Costumed events take place every day

- See the stunning Crown Jewels and other exhibits